Power – Do we really need it?

The tennis game has definitely become more power oriented in certain instances. But don’t get too excited just yet. Usually when people hear that, they say “Great, now I can hit it is hard as I can on every shot.” Approaching the ball as if you’re going to hit a home run is far from the answer.

When the shot is hit to you long and deep, try to maintain a steady pace without using 100% of your brute strength. It can be difficult to find a rhythm if your wildly slugging at every ball that comes your way. Not to mention, it may throw your arm out.

But hitting at about 80% to 85% of your max will help you keep a sound rhythm anf give you a much stronger sense of control if you end up in a rally war. On the other hand, when the ball comes short, that’s when you really want to increase the pace, hit it with a full swing, and follow through.

And let me tell you, those short balls don’t come often, so you better be ready to pounce when the time comes. And if you’ve got the foot speed, that’s even better. Many times, speed and preparation will make your tennis life 10 times easier.

In fact, the quicker you move, the more options you’re going to have. And with more options, you can keep your opponent on his heals and guessing where the ball is going every time you hit the ball. And if you have trouble generating a lot of power, this in some cases, could even replace it.

-Tennis Mind Camp Staff